European vibes in Lake Oswego? Apparently so.

From its walkability to its downtown architecture, adventure traveler Charlie Boyle recently touted Lake Oswego as a “charming lakefront town” that “feels like it belongs in Europe.”

On many of her points, we’d have to agree.

1. Walkability and a Village-Like Center

The biggest selling point is Lake Oswego’s Millennium Plaza Park. Like piazzas in Rome, plazas in Spain, and public squares in London, Millennium Plaza Park is a defining feature of the city’s urban landscape where residents gather for the farmer’s market, evening concerts, and community celebrations.

This pedestrian-friendly core is a defining feature of many European towns. The area is home to boutiques, wine bars, restaurants and coffee shops, giving residents as well as visitors an excuse to slow down and gather. The summer hanging flower baskets and lakeside vista echo the appeal of many of Europe’s most picturesque towns.

2. A Deep Connection to Nature and Water

Like the alpine villages of Austria or the lake towns of northern Italy, Lake Oswego’s identity is deeply tied to water. Oswego Lake weaves through the city’s neighborhoods, offering both serenity and recreation for both those who live on the lake and more recently, other residents and visitors too with the recent court decision to provide public access at Millennium Plaza Park. The lakeside parks, tree-lined streets, and the riverfront pathway along George Rogers Park evoke the kind of lifestyle where people pause to enjoy the view, paddleboard in the late afternoon sun, or picnic under the trees—an unhurried pace that’s quintessentially European.

3. Architectural Character and Thoughtful Design

Unlike many American suburbs defined by big-box stores and uniform developments, Lake Oswego showcases a mix of architectural styles that add character and texture to the city. Tudor-style homes, French Country estates, Mediterranean-inspired villas, and classic Craftsman bungalows coexist in harmony. The city has made a conscious effort to preserve historic homes and maintain a human-scale aesthetic that values craftsmanship over convenience—a hallmark of European design.

4. An Emphasis on Art, Culture, and Community

Public art is everywhere in Lake Oswego—from bronze sculptures along the sidewalks to community events like Gallery Without Walls. Much like in European towns where art is integrated into daily life, Lake Oswego encourages cultural engagement. The Lakewood Center for the Arts, summer concerts in the park, and the beloved Farmers’ Market create a strong sense of community and celebration of local talent.

So there you have it! Next time you need your “Europe fix,” check out Lake Oswego, Oregon. And if you like what you see (which we have a feeling you will), get in touch with us. We’d love to help you call Lake Oswego home.

Kevin Costello kevin.costello@cascadehasson.com 503.939.9801

Riley Costello riley.costello@cascadehasson.com 971.322.6205